We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Dennis Pezaro, a long-standing rural GP whose contribution to Wānaka and to general practice in New Zealand was profound.

Dennis dedicated his life to primary care and was a tireless advocate for high-quality health services for rural and remote communities. He served the people of Wānaka with compassion, skill and unwavering commitment, and his influence extended nationally through his leadership as Chairman of the New Zealand Medical Association and through his work advocating for general practice.

Nationally recognised for his service to medicine, Dennis was also a generous mentor to many doctors, always willing to share his time, wisdom and encouragement. He believed deeply in the value of primary care and in caring for people as whole human beings.

Dennis’s legacy lives on in the community he served, the services he helped strengthen, and the many clinicians he inspired. He is greatly missed and warmly remembered.